Obasanjo advocate for 40 percent slot for women in politics

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Olusegun Obasnjo, former president of Nigeria has said that Nigeria's 1999 should be amended to include 40 percent slot for women in the National Assembly and other levels of governance.

Presenting a paper entitled, "Nigerian Democracy and the journey So far: The Role of Women", at the 70th birthday of former Minister of Women Affair, Mrs. Josephine Anenih in Abuja on Tuesday, Obasanjo said the nation's democracy will grow at a low pace without the active participation of women.

"Our constitution should be amended to allow 40 percent of women to participate in politics. The health of our democracy can be judge by the participation of women.

"The low number of women in National Assembly is unacceptable and makes mockery of gender imbalance.

"Democracy is a system of government that allow team spirit and debate before decisions are reached. It is a government for all citizens to enjoy without fear of favour," Obasanjo said.

Prominent politicians also in attendance include former governors of Jigawa and Anambra State, Sale Lamido, Peter Obi among others, Daily Trust reported.